Low growth hormone - Vitality Hormone Center

Low Growth Hormone Levels: Symptoms and Treatment

Low growth hormone, also known as growth hormone deficiency, is a condition where the pituitary gland does not produce enough growth hormone. This can occur in both children and adults, leading to various symptoms and complications.

Symptoms of Low Growth Hormone

In Children and Adolescents:

• Slowed Growth: Children with growth hormone deficiency may experience slower growth rates and shorter final adult height.

In Adults:

• Increased Body Fat: Adults with low growth hormone levels often have an increased percentage of body fat, particularly around the waist.
• Decreased Muscle Mass and Strength: Lack of growth hormone can lead to decreased muscle mass and reduced strength.
• Poor Bone Density and Higher Fracture Risk: Growth hormone deficiency can contribute to decreased bone density, increasing the risk of fractures.
• Impacts on Cholesterol and Heart Health: Low growth hormone levels may adversely affect cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health.

Causes of Growth Hormone Deficiency

Common causes of low growth hormone include:

• Pituitary Gland Tumors or Damage: Tumors or injuries to the pituitary gland can impair its ability to produce growth hormone.
• Genetic Defects: Some genetic disorders can affect the production or action of growth hormone.
• Idiopathic (Unknown Causes): In some cases, the cause of growth hormone deficiency remains unknown.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency typically involves blood tests to measure insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and growth hormone levels, often in combination with stimulation tests.

Treatment for low growth hormone levels often involves synthetic growth hormone injections to replace the deficient hormone. This can help normalize growth in children and manage symptoms in adults when deficiency is confirmed.

Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can also play a supportive role in managing the effects of growth hormone deficiency.

If you suspect you or your child may have low growth hormone levels, it is essential to consult with an endocrinologist at Vitality Hormone Center for proper evaluation and treatment.